In German
Gute Nacht
Meaning: good night
Formal or informal? “Gute Nacht” is used both for going to bed and as a farewell late in the evening, when you leave a party.
Example sentences
GuteNacht,schlafgut!
Good night, sleep well!
GuteNacht,Mama!
Good night, Mum!
GuteNachtallerseits!
Good night, everyone!
Grammar note
“Gute” is an adjective taking the -e ending because “Nacht” is feminine. “Nacht” is used only at night.
Common mistake
“Gute Nacht” is not a greeting. For arriving in the evening, say “Guten Abend”.
Quick check
Which phrase do you say when going to bed?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
Can I say Gute Nacht when leaving a party?
Yes, late in the evening it's a normal farewell, especially when leaving a party or dinner.
What's the reply to Gute Nacht?
“Gute Nacht” again, or “Schlaf gut”.